Scientists are asking viewers to be quiet and respectful while watching the total eclipse (file/FOX Carolina)

(FOX Carolina) -

Professor Shelly Meyers from Limestone College said she can hardly wait for the big day.

She's already breaking in her special viewing glasses, but after preparing for months, she's warning others that those precious moments need to be distraction-free.

"There are lots of different reasons to be quiet and just be respectful of the people around you," Meyers said.

She's expecting viewing areas to be packed, with some who are just looking to enjoy the spectacle.

"Some are scientists and so they are trying to take different measurements,” Meyers said. “They might be listening to animal sounds, they may be looking for plant behavior, they may even be looking for human behavior changes."

The day of the total eclipse, Meyers said she will be working with the South Carolina State Museum with experts who have been waiting to run experiments for years. However, she said it won't take much for others to accidentally ruin the science of the event.

"It’s really important to be still,” Meyers added. “If you have young children who might be running around, you might want to hold on to them. You never know how they will respond."

The space enthusiast said silence is also key. With sonar equipment out, she said the smallest background noise can throw numbers off.

"Keeping your cell phones quiet, not even a vibration,” Meyers said. “That's really important especially for people who are measuring sound."

The professor said it’s such a rare opportunity, so many don't know what to expect. She said that's why it’s important to remember that the day will mean something different for everyone.

"There are some people who consider events like this to be of significance for their religious beliefs,” Meyers said. “So it's really important to be respectful of those around us and to just listen and enjoy it. It only lasts for less than three minutes. Just take it all in and be mindful of those around you."